Resolving to Get Outdoors More in 2011

Two million feet – no, it’s not the ultimate snowfall record. Canadian ski mountaineer Greg Hill, a.k.a “the human helicopter”, set out to ski two million vertical feet in 2010. He succeeded.

With the New Year just around the corner, people are busy setting goals. This year is extra special. It’s not just the end of a year and the start of a new one – it’s the end of a decade. Your goals don’t have to be as ambitious as Greg’s, but it can be fun to have something to work towards over the next year (or 10). Whether you plan to strive for a personal best or record first, it’s as easy as gearing up, gaining sufficient knowledge and getting going.

If you’re new to the outdoors, you might with something that is attainable for your skill level. One year I recorded kilometres – Canadian, eh! – done for cross-country skiing. My goal was 1000 km – I passed it.

This year, my outdoor goals are simply to be out hiking, biking, skiing, paddling, running, walking, scrambling, and climbing even more than I was last year. I’ve already booked two different trips in the first two weeks of January. I’m also joining the Alpine Club of Canada. On a related note, I’m planning on ramping up my outdoor video skills and will start offering links to demos and reviews of Brooks-Range gear, such as the Ultralite Alpini Shelter 200 and the Alpini Mountain Anorak, as well as scenes from outdoor adventures. I hope you’ll join me for a journey outdoors.

Put yourself in the outdoor picture in 2011!

Are you setting goals for this coming winter? If so, let me know what they are in the comments box below and we’ll share progress reports along the way.